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Radiography and Radiation Oncology

A guide designed for the Radiography and Radiation Oncology Programs at Virginia Western.

What is Evidence-Based Practice?

Evidence-based practice (EBP) refers to the approach of making decisions or forming conclusions based on the best available, well-researched evidence, rather than personal opinions or assumptions. In college, especially when conducting research, EBP helps you evaluate the reliability and validity of sources, ensuring that your findings are grounded in credible and relevant data. This is crucial for producing high-quality, ethical research, improving critical thinking skills, and supporting academic integrity by using scientifically backed information to guide conclusions and recommendations.

An image showing a Venn diagram of the three tenets of evidence-based practice: clinical expertise, evidence, and patient preferences.

Excellent patient care combines the three core tenets of Evidence-Based Practice. The three tenets are:

  1. Evidence: Utilizing the most reliable and up-to-date research, such as peer-reviewed studies and systematic reviews, to inform decisions or practices. High-quality evidence is essential for ensuring that healthcare decisions are well-supported and based on sound data.

  2. Clinical Expertise: Healthcare professionals integrating their own expertise, experience, and judgment in patient care. This ensures that decisions are not just based on theory but are also tailored to the specific context, needs, and conditions of the individuals involved.

  3. Patient Preferences: Recognizing the values, preferences, and individual circumstances of those affected by a decision is crucial. In practice, this means considering the perspectives and choices of patients, ensuring that interventions or recommendations align with their personal goals and values.

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